Return to Gwyneth Walker Music Catalog
Download a PDF file of the score of this composition. For perusal only -- not printable.
Commissioned by Eddie Wilkin and the Sanctuary Choir of Grace Church of Rutland, Vermont,
to honor interim Music Director Diane Chartrand on the occasion of her retirement.
Premiered on June 25, 2017 - Eddie Wilkin, interim Choir Director
This Prayer combines traditional texts (Psalms 4:8 and 5:8) with the closing lines of John Greenleaf Whittier's poem, "Divine Compassion." The biblical passages ask for the Lord's guidance that we may walk in the paths of peace. Extending the supplication, the poignant Whittier lines ask for human compassion.
Let me keep a heart that still can feel, and eyes that still can weep.
In today's world of increasing violence, and increasing global awareness of atrocities, we are often challenged to remain sensitive to suffering, to respond with a heart that still can feel, and eyes that can still weep.
Notes by the composer